WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has launched a new web site with detailed information and tips on how to save money by developing smart energy habits. The site, www.EnergySavingTips.gov, serves as a consumer-friendly portal to detailed energy saving information from various federal agencies.

“With winter upon us, it’s a good time to evaluate how to save money through increased energy efficiency,” said David K. Garman, Assistant Secretary of Energy for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. “The Department of Energy has taken the lead in helping to provide American consumers with useful, centralized, understandable information that will not only assist in identifying low-cost, short-term solutions, but also help with long-term energy-saving strategies.”

EnergySavingTips.gov provides practical links to help consumers:

• Shop by zip code for Energy Star appliances;
• Find the lowest-priced gasoline in their neighborhood;
• Compare the fuel efficiency of vehicles currently on the market;
• Identify features to look for when buying a hybrid or alternate fuel vehicle;
• Take advantage of various tax incentives and utility rebates that may be available from the federal government, local communities or through state energy offices.

Consumers can also access free software tools through this site to evaluate their home energy use and determine what can be saved by adopting simple, energy-smart practices. These strategies could include upgrading old, leaky windows, installing a programmable thermostat or simply turning down the hot water heater.

The energy saving tips portal site may also be accessed through the Department of Energy’s web site, www.energy.gov.